Final answer:
Early adopters are typically better at coping with uncertainty and handling ambiguity than late adopters. They are willing to take risks, potentially have a higher social status, and exhibit opinion leadership which helps trigger wider adoption of new innovations.
Step-by-step explanation:
Relative to late adopters, early adopters are described as individuals who are more capable of handling ambiguity and are better at coping with uncertainty. Early adopters play a crucial role in the diffusion of new products and innovations, as they are willing to take risks by adopting products or ideas before the majority of consumers. These individuals often have a higher social status, financial liquidity, advanced education, and are more socially forward than later adopters. They also serve as a bridge between the innovators and the larger market.
Early adopters tend to be leaders in social settings and have a higher degree of opinion leadership compared to late adopters. Their behavior helps trigger the critical mass necessary for widespread adoption of innovative products or practices, thereby influencing peer groups and spreading product awareness. They can also provide valuable feedback to the creators, thereby helping to refine the product or innovation.